Taipei Attractions

National Palace Museum

Those who want to soak up some Chinese culture in serious style will be awed by the vast collection of ancient artefacts and artwork at Taipei's National Palace Museum. The collection forms the bulk of what was once on display at the Forbidden City in Beijing, moved to Taipei as a result of the Chinese Civil War. Recently re-opened after extensive renovations, the museum houses some world-famous exhibits like the 'Jade Cabbage' (a piece of jade carved to resemble a cabbage head), and a valuable copy of the Qingming Scroll.

Address: 221 Chih-shan Road, Sec. 2, Shih-lin; Website: www.npm.gov.tw; Telephone: (2) 2881 2021; Transport: MRT Danshui Line to Shilin Station and then bus R30 (Red 30). Other routes that will take you to and near the Museum plaza are buses 255, 304, Minibus 18 and Minibus 19; Opening time: Daily 9am to 5pm. Free guided tours in English at 10am and 3pm daily; Admission: NT$160, concessions available